Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe
If you’re craving a vibrant dish that bursts with Mediterranean flavors and comes together effortlessly, let me introduce you to Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe. This Greek-inspired marvel features succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, tangy tomato sauce, adorned with creamy crumbled feta cheese, and brightened by fresh herbs and lemon juice. The best part? It’s all made in just one pan, ensuring a feast full of bold, comforting tastes without the hassle of a mountain of dishes. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe brings warmth and excitement to your table with every mouthwatering bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to making this recipe shine. Each item plays a starring role, adding layers of flavor, color, and texture that strike the perfect balance in this delightful dish.
- 1 pound large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these tender morsels are the centerpiece, absorbing the rich sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that infuses the dish with subtle fruity notes while sautéing.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a hint of pungency.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick that awakens the palate without overpowering.
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes: The juicy base of the sauce, providing acidity and luscious tomato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato essence and thickens the sauce to a luxurious texture.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb adding an earthy, slightly minty tone.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors perfectly.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Salty, creamy, and mildly tangy, it melts slightly into the sauce for irresistible richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, vibrant finish and an appealing green contrast.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional): Adds a delicate herbal brightness reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast.
- Juice of ½ lemon: The final touch that balances the dish with refreshing acidity.
How to Make Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Flavorful Base
Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet, the perfect vessel for this one-pan delight. Sauté the finely chopped onion until it turns soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Stir in minced garlic and the optional crushed red pepper flakes, cooking just long enough to awaken their fragrant aromas but not burn the garlic. This base infuses the entire dish with inviting layers of flavor.
Step 2: Building the Tomato Sauce
Next, add the diced tomatoes along with their juices, tomato paste, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper right into the skillet. Let it gently simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring now and then as the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully. This sauce is rich yet bright, the heart of Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe.
Step 3: Cooking the Star Ingredient
Once your sauce is luscious and bubbling, nestle the shrimp evenly into the skillet. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely pink hue and are just cooked through—no one likes rubbery shrimp! As the shrimp finish cooking, gently stir in half of the crumbled feta cheese, allowing some of it to melt slightly into the sauce, adding creaminess and that signature tang.
Step 4: The Final Touches
Remove the skillet from heat and then top the shrimp and sauce with the remaining feta cheese, chopped parsley, and optional fresh dill for a burst of herbal freshness. Finish by squeezing in the juice of half a lemon, which lifts the entire dish, balancing the rich feta and tomato flavors with its citrusy zip. This step brings Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe to its vibrant, crave-worthy conclusion.
How to Serve Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe

Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley and dill isn’t just for color—it brightens every forkful and provides a welcome contrast to the creamy feta and rich tomato sauce. A final drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil can add a subtle fruitiness and beautiful sheen that elevates the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every last luscious drop of sauce. For a heartier meal, serve Shrimp Saganaki over fluffy rice or tender couscous to make it even more comforting and satisfying. A crisp, green salad with lemon dressing complements the flavors beautifully, adding freshness and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dinner party, serve Shrimp Saganaki in individual shallow white bowls, highlighting the vibrant reds, whites, and greens. Garnish with lemon wedges on the side for guests to add an extra zing if they desire. Another fun idea is to serve it as a tapa-style dish with toothpicks for easy nibbling alongside a chilled glass of white wine or ouzo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Shrimp Saganaki keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store it promptly to maintain freshness and prevent the shrimp from overcooking if reheated later.
Freezing
While fresh shrimp dishes are best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze the tomato sauce base separately for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw gently and add freshly cooked shrimp to retain their perfect texture. Avoid freezing shrimp already combined with sauce to preserve the best flavor and consistency in this amazing one-pan delight recipe.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Add a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce seems too thick. Reheat just until warmed through, then garnish again with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon to revive the bright flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan, which can dilute the sauce and affect texture.
Is it possible to make Shrimp Saganaki spicy?
Yes, simply increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to turn up the heat. It’s a nice way to give this classic dish your own fiery twist.
Can I substitute the feta cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, try crumbled goat cheese which provides a similar creamy tang but with a milder flavor. Just remember to add it near the end to keep that luscious texture.
What can I serve with Shrimp Saganaki for a complete meal?
This dish pairs beautifully with a lightly dressed green salad, crusty bread, or fluffy rice. For a Greek-inspired feast, add some grilled vegetables or a simple cucumber and tomato salad alongside.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for gluten-sensitive eaters when paired with appropriate sides.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of serving up Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe to your loved ones and seeing their faces light up with delight. It’s a recipe that’s as joyful to cook as it is to eat. With its perfect harmony of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and easy cleanup, it’s sure to become a regular in your culinary rotation. So grab your skillet and dive into this Greek-inspired treasure—you won’t regret it!
Print
Shrimp Saganaki: An Amazing Ultimate One-Pan Delight Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Shrimp Saganaki is a classic Greek one-pan dish featuring succulent shrimp simmered in a rich tomato and feta cheese sauce, enhanced with aromatic herbs and spices. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, making it an ideal main course served with crusty bread or rice.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional)
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare Tomato Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Cook Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Add Feta Cheese: Gently stir in half of the crumbled feta cheese and then remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the dish with the remaining feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, fresh dill if using, and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the top. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Notes
- For extra richness, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the dish just before serving.
- You can substitute crumbled goat cheese if you prefer a milder cheese flavor.
- Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them juicy and tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek